How to Help a Student Gain Executive Functions

Students who lack Executive Functioning (EF) skills are the ones who just can’t seem to “get it together.” They can be seen running down the hall, late for class, papers falling out of their backpack and panicking because they just overheard some kids talking about a quiz they had totally forgotten about. Now what can be done to help this hot mess become a successful student?

To review, EF skills include organization, time management, the ability to plan ahead to reach a goal, prioritizing, initiating work, focusing and attending to details. Students with a weakness in EF have trouble with working memory, overcoming obstacles to reach a goal and flexibility. These students are often viewed as lazy and unmotivated.  In reality, they are more likely to suffer from low self esteem and lack of confidence.

There are a number of strategies to help students cope with the challenges associated with EF:

• Keep a planner — Most schools give out student planners at the beginning of the school year, so get in the habit of actually using it and remember to replace it right away when you lose it. I also like the idea of hanging a huge “blotter” calendar on the wall and crossing off days so it's easy to see how much time is left before a test or a project is due.
• Break down (or “chunk”) long term projects — On your giant calendar, create deadlines for smaller tasks necessary to complete a large project,  i.e., write “finish rough draft” a week before an essay is due.
• Make lists — Make checklists for assignments, including projected completion dates for each task. The key is to remember to look at your lists. Resist the urge to scribble notes on little scraps of paper, your sneakers or body parts.
• Follow schedules and routines — Do your homework at the same place and time every day and make it a habit to make sure you have everything you need for school before you leave in the morning and everything you need to complete your homework before you leave school.
• Communicate regularly with your teacher — stay after class to clarify assignments, take advantage of test review sessions, and let your teacher know if you are struggling with an assignment.
• Clean out your backpack and organize your papers once a week! There’s nothing worse than finding a moldy bologna sandwich at the bottom of your backpack.

The object is to get ahead of the game instead of constantly trying to play catch-up. These strategies will help get you on your way.

Sue Schaefer is a certified teacher and Academic Coach. We encourage you to submit your education questions to Sue at susan.schaefer@academiccoachingct.com and to visit her Web site: Academic Coaching Associates.